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No-one was injured in the incident, which took place shortly after 11am.

Services on the route were expected to be disrupted for at least 48 hours after the collision, with passengers advised to check the CalMac website and social media for updates on alternative travel plans. They can also call 0800 066 5000.

Operations director, Drew Collier, said: "We are doing everything possible to ease disruption for our customers and apologise for the undoubted inconvenience which is being experienced.

"We are grateful for the support, patience and understanding we have received from passengers and we ask that our customers continue to bear with us while we work to sort out the best alternatives possible.

"The safety of our passengers, crew and vessel is paramount and everyone can be assured that a full formal investigation is under way."